The somewhat forgotten state of Vermont is one of the most aesthetically beautiful states in the U.S. For some strange reason it seems to get overlooked by many!
The Green Mountain State certainly lives up to its nickname and boats incredibly expansive forests, majestic mountains, and some of the best hiking and skiing spots in the U.S.
Vermont is located on the east coast and borders the Canadian province of Québec from the north, New Hampshire to the east (via the Connecticut River), and Lake Champlain separates Vermont from the state of New York from the northwest, and Massachusetts from the south.
There is much to dissect when taking a look at the interesting facts of Vermont as the state has plenty of redeeming qualities that many people are unaware of, let’s check out our list!
Alternatively, if you are here solely to check out the economic and business facts about Vermont, then feel free to skip straight to this section.
14 Interesting Facts on Vermont
1. Vermont’s name originates from the French phrase; “Vert Mont”, which, when translated means “Green Mountain”. This name not only suites the state extremely well but it also matches Vermont’s nickname perfectly.
2. During the year 1791, Vermont was admitted to the union, subsequently becoming the 14th U.S. state – hence our list of 14 facts, meaning that Vermont also holds the title for being the first state admitted after the thirteen colonies.
3. Vermont produces the most maple syrup out of any other U.S. state, producing an astounding 500,000+ gallons of the tasty sugary drizzle each year!
4. On the topic of production and Vermont’s top exports, the state produces the most marble and second most talc in the nation, with both of them being the state’s official rock and mineral.
5. The region of Vermont, before it was granted statehood back in 1791 was claimed numerous times by both New York and New Hampshire.
6. Vermont has some strict laws on its sale of alcohol. The state does sell alcohol to out of state licenses, it is a requirement to have a liquor ID if you want to purchase alcohol at liquor stores and grocery stores, however, this does not apply to bars and restaurants within the state.
7. Vermont is the second-least populated state in the entire nation, and with a population of around 620,000, it is pretty clear to see why, with the 10th most populated city in the U.S. boasting a population of almost double (San Jose, CA)!
8. Billboards are totally illegal in Vermont, with the Green Mountain State being one of four states to ban commercial billboards, the other states include Maine, Hawaii, and Alaska.
9. The beautiful Green Mountains of Vermont are a sight to behold, running south to north and extending around 260 miles from the border of Massachusetts to the border of Québec, Canada.
Economic Interesting Facts About Vermont
There is plenty to consider when taking a look at the business and economic interesting facts about Vermont as there is plenty to look at. Many have perceived Vermont over the years as having a weaker economy and business climate than most. However, this has been changing dramatically over the past several years.
Over the last few years, Vermont’s popularity certainly has increased, with business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs all deciding to call the Green Mountain State their new home and subsequent place of business.
When you compare the state GDP, median income, and college education system with the population and the state’s cost of living, Vermont has an impressive and ever-growing business and economic environment.
Here is our List of Interesting Facts about Vermont’s Economy
- Vermont’s GDP is $34 billion, which is incredibly high when you consider the state’s tiny population.
- Agriculture has been a massive economic contributor within the state, and this is clear to see on Vermont’s state seal.
- Vermont has a progressive income tax rate ranging between 3.35% and 8.75%.
- Vermont has an incredibly slick education system, with over 47% of the population being college-educated.
- Vermont’s economy ranks 5th out of all 50 states according to the US News & World Report.
- Vermont’s crime and corrections and public safety rank 3rd and 2nd respectively (US News & World Report).
- Vermont’s economic opportunity ranks 15th among the U.S. states ( US News & World Report), making it a good state to start a business in.
- The minimum wage in Vermont is $11.75 per hour (one of the highest in the U.S.).
- Vermont’s median income is $34,443.
- The average house price in Vermont is $275,027, however, this number is seasonally adjusted. To remain updated with the latest house price information, take a look at Zillow’s website.
- Small businesses are rapidly taking the country by storm, and for the better! Vermont’s number of small businesses is rising each year, there are currently over 78,000 small businesses.
- Small businesses account for over 99% of all Vermont businesses.
- There are over 157,000 small business employees in Vermont.
- The number of small business employees makes up over 60% of all employees in the state.
- Vermont’s sales tax rate is 6%.
All of these economic facts about Vermont provide many valid reasons why people decide to move to the state for business and work opportunities, and it’s difficult to argue with any of them!
Here are the remaining interesting facts about Vermont
10. The 30th U.S. President Calvin Coolidge was born in Vermont and is the only president to be born on the famous Fourth of July. Another president that hails from Vermont is Chester A. Arthur.
11. Vermont prides itself on being one of the most progressive states in the U.S., with the Green Mountain State being the first to grant women partial voting rights in 1880, abolish slavery as a republic state, and legislate same-sex marriage!
12. Vermont only has one state-wide U.S. area code (802).
13. Vermont’s state capitol building is one of only a couple to have a golden dome, signifying not only the importance of the building itself but the state of Vermont!
14. Before Vermont became a state in 1791, it was actually an independent country due to clashes over the land. Locals began to print their own currency, enacting huge laws such as the abolishment of slavery, and they even established their own postal service!
Thanks for taking a look at our 14+ fun facts about Vermont! If you have some facts and fun information regarding Vermont’s past and present that we have not covered, make sure to comment below.
